With the conclusion of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, the world bid farewell to an event filled with unforgettable moments and inspiring athletic performances. The spectacle drew to a close at the Stade de France, where a star-studded Closing Ceremony encapsulated the spirit of the Games and set the stage for the upcoming Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
A Grand Closing in Paris
The Closing Ceremony was nothing short of a Hollywood-meets-Olympics extravaganza. It featured a series of dazzling performances that bridged the cultural gaps between Paris and Los Angeles, illustrating the seamless transition of the Olympic spirit. Among the highlights was a breathtaking entrance by Tom Cruise, who descended from the roof holding the Olympic flag. This luminous moment was further elevated when renowned gymnast Simone Biles passed the flag to Cruise, marking the symbolic handover to Los Angeles.
Adding to the drama, Cruise embarked on an adventurous journey with the Olympic flag. Boarding a military cargo plane with his motorcycle, he was shown in a montage skydiving into Los Angeles. The cinematic portrayal even included a remarkable transformation of the double O's of the Hollywood sign into the bottom of the Olympic rings logo, a fitting homage to the city set to host the next summer Games.
Musical Celebration
The Ceremony featured a rich tapestry of musical performances that captured the vibrancy of both Paris and Los Angeles. American skateboarder Jagger Eaton contributed to the dynamic atmosphere by skating with the Olympic flag to a quintessential Southern California beach, blending sport and culture seamlessly. The Red Hot Chili Peppers electrified the audience with their hit song "Can't Stop," while Billie Eilish delivered a riveting performance on an adjacent stage. The festivities reached a fever pitch with Snoop Dogg's "Drop It Like It's Hot," joined by Dr. Dre for a rendition of "The Next Episode." The night was punctuated with color cannons firing off the Olympic colors against a picturesque California beach backdrop.
Paris Pays Homage
Back in Paris, the celebration continued with artistic and cultural tributes to the host city. Pianist Alain Roche performed suspended in the air, while opera singer Benjamin Bernheim graced the ceremony with his vocal prowess. The event also featured performances by French musicians Thomas Mars, Angèle, and the band Phoenix. French swimmer Leon Marchand carried the Olympic torch before it was ceremoniously extinguished, signaling the official end of the 2024 Games. French R&B singer Yseult added a poignant touch with her performance of "Comme d'habitude."
Transition to the Paralympic Games
The ceremony also marked Paris' transition from hosting the Olympics to the Paralympic Games. French rugby star and flag bearer Antoine Dupont symbolized this shift by passing a French flag to Paralympic track and field runner Nantenin Keita. This act elegantly signaled the upcoming Paralympic Games scheduled from Aug. 28 to Sept. 8, ensuring that the spirit of athletic excellence continued in Paris.
United States' Dominance
The United States emerged as a dominant force in these Games, amassing a remarkable total of 126 medals. Both the United States and China managed to secure an impressive 40 gold medals each, underscoring the fierce competition among the world's top athletes.
A Final Farewell
The Closing Ceremony concluded with a mesmerizing fireworks display over the Stade de France. As the Olympic flame was extinguished, Paris bid a heartfelt farewell to the Games, paving the way for Los Angeles to take up the mantle in 2028. The transition was marked by the dazzling performances and symbolic moments that captured the essence of the Olympic spirit, ensuring that the legacy of Paris 2024 will be remembered for years to come.